Marcus Richards
For over fifty years, the New Orleans Saints have been thrilling their fans with legendary plays and incredible games. From colorful rivalries to postseason victories, there is no doubt that the Saints have made a significant impact in the NFL.
However, it’s not just those incredible moments to remember when thinking about this beloved team – over the decades, plenty of other genuinely remarkable and memorable moments have also occurred. Let’s look at what might be considered some of the most iconic moments from Saints history– here are our top five picks!
Signing Drew Brees
Before his arrival, the team’s struggles were painful, and many fans had lost their faith in the franchise. Things were even gloomier after Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. But in 2006, the Saints beat out the Dolphins, signing Brees and changing all their fortunes. Brees gave the team hope for the first time in a long time. And boy, did he deliver.
Brees’ impact was not just limited to what he did on the field – off it, he donated large amounts of money to charity and supported many worthwhile causes, particularly those affected by Katrina. Brees became a fan favorite because of his quarterback skill and willingness to give back to those in need. The Saints ultimately won multiple NFC South titles and their first Super Bowl championship with Brees as their leader, giving New Orleans fans something they had long dreamed about for many years– making this one of the most memorable signings in Saints history.
Steve Gleason: The Man
During Week 3 of the 2006 season, Gleason made one of the Saints’ most iconic plays ever when he blocked a punt by Falcons’ punter Michael Koenen, which Curtis Deloatch scooped up and returned for a touchdown. This play propelled the Saints to a 23-3 victory over their rivals, and the play became known as “The Block.”
During his time with the Saints, he established Team Gleason, an organization dedicated to helping those with ALS obtain greater access to medical services and more independence overall. In addition to this work, he traveled around speaking about his own battle with ALS, inspiring many along the way. His inspiration in the city is still felt today, and he is one of the franchise’s biggest heroes.
Tom Dempsey from 63 yards
In 1970, Dempsey wrote his name into the record books when he kicked a 63-yarder with only half a foot, becoming the first to make a field goal over sixty yards in an NFL game. This kick was especially remarkable because Dempsey was born without toes on his right foot, making it even more impressive to swing his leg so far and kick it with enough power to get it through the uprights. The incredible feat was completed with just two seconds left in the game, giving the Saints an inspiring 19-17 victory over Detroit.
While the record has since been topped, most recently Justin Tucker’s 66-yard game-winner also against Detroit in 2021, Dempsey’s kick is still one of the most famous kicks in NFL history.
Tracy Porter Picks Off Brett Favre
The end of the 2009 NFC Championship game is one of the all-time best. With just 19 seconds left and the Vikings driving for the game-winning field goal, Favre rolled right and saw wide receiver Sidney Rice open in the middle of the field. But just as he let the ball go, Tracy Porter stepped in front of Rice and snatched the ball out of the air, taking possession for the Saints and crushing Favre’s chances of going to the Super Bowl.
The game went into overtime where…
Garrett Hartley Kicks The Saints Into The Super Bowl
Morten Anderson’s 61-yard field goal was great; Dempsey’s 63-yarder historic. But Garrett Hartley’s 40-yard kick to send the Saints to Super Bowl XLIV is as good as it gets if you’re a Saints fan.
After driving deep into Vikings territory, Sean Payton sent Garrett Hartley on to kick a 40-yard field goal. Payton told Hartley before he strode onto the field, “You deserve to be here.” Fans were a bit nervous since Hartley was only five-for-seven during the season, including 0-1 from 40 yards or more. But Hartley coolly stepped up and knocked the ball straight through the uprights to send the Saints into the Super Bowl. Two weeks later, they knocked off the Colts to win their first-ever world championship.
Tom Dempsey from 63 yards
In 1970, Dempsey wrote his name into the record books when he kicked a 63-yarder with only half a foot, becoming the first to make a field goal over sixty yards in an NFL game. This kick was especially remarkable because Dempsey was born without toes on his right foot, making it even more impressive to swing his leg so far and kick it with enough power to get it through the uprights. The incredible feat was completed with just two seconds left in the game, giving the Saints an inspiring 19-17 victory over Detroit.
While the record has since been topped, most recently Justin Tucker’s 66-yard game-winner also against Detroit in 2021, Dempsey’s kick is still one of the most famous kicks in NFL history.
Conclusion
The Saints have had an up-and-down journey during its history. The latest chapter includes the addition of quarterback Derek Carr, who hopes to improve the New Orleans Saints upcoming odds for 2023. With Tom Brady now out of the division and the Saints adding key pieces to go alongside Carr, such as running back Jamaal Williams, they can hope to build upon new memories and return to their championship winning ways.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings